“For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh.” (Philippians 3:3, NIV84)

John, in his Gospel, says something very similar to Paul here. He quotes Jesus saying, “God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth” (John 4:24). The Holy Spirit, who created faith in our hearts, moves us continuously to serve and worship God properly. The Judaisers of Paul’s day were gloating over their ritual obedience to outward rites and practices. But Paul claims that we are the truly circumcised (whether we are or aren’t physically) because we put confidence not in our works but rather in the saving work of Jesus Christ.

A right faith brings about a right worship, which will bring proper glory to God. You see, at the end of the day, it is not about us. It was, is, and always will be about God loving us, redeeming us, saving us, providing for us, and protecting us. Our worship and works are simply acts of gratitude for what He has done for us. They are never acts of sacrifice to earn something from Him. He has already given His all to us.

May we worship and serve God in a spirit of gratitude that He might receive all glory and praise.